As India’s mining industry evolves, BKT’s Earthmax tyres lead the way, providing unrivalled durability and efficiency for surface and underground operations.

How would you describe the current state of the mining industry in India, particularly in terms of surface and underground mining?
India’s mining sector is expanding rapidly, owing to rising mineral demand and technological developments. Surface mining, which includes open-pit and strip mining, remains the most popular method due to its low cost and efficiency. However, underground mining is increasingly popular, particularly for obtaining minerals found farther underground, such as uranium, zinc, and copper.

Speaking of technology, how are you contributing to the mining industry in India, particularly with your Earthmax products?
Our Earthmax line of all-steel OTR radial tyres is developed for heavy-duty surface and underground mining machines. Earthmax tyres are designed to handle hard mining conditions with high durability, traction, and cut resistance. We customise these tyres to meet the individual needs of each mining site, assuring optimal performance and safety.

Can you elaborate on how BKT tyres are customisable for different mining sites?
Each mining site has distinct terrain, mineral types, and operating challenges. At BKT, we collaborate closely with mining operators to understand their conditions and tailor our Earthmax tyres accordingly. Our representatives continually assess site circumstances and adapt to changes in haul distance, loading patterns, terrain, and equipment. If the present condition changes, the existing tyres may no longer be the best fit for the task, which is when we come in with new recommendations that meet your updated needs.

How is BKT differentiating itself from other industry players?
We have the most SKUs in the Off-Highway tyre market and are manufactured in India, so our customers receive timely deliveries and don’t have to worry about stocking up on tyres. Our local production decreases wait times and keeps costs low for our clients. We are additionally, being close to customers results in more prompt after-sales care. With one of the industry’s largest R&D teams and an in-house mould facility, we can offer new patterns and compounds quickly – from concept to market introduction.

Could you elaborate on the benefits Earthmax tyres offer for mining operations?
Earthmax tyres offer several advantages to mining operations. Because of its durability and high traction, the Earthmax SR 53 for wheel loaders provides a longer tyre life and reduces downtime. The Earthmax SR 55 for LHD machines improves stability and manoeuvrability in underground mines, increasing overall safety and efficiency. The Earthmax SR 46 rigid dump truck tyre has excellent cut resistance and tread durability, making it perfect for surface mining’s severe conditions. Our Mineforce bias tyres for rigid dump trucks and Earthmax OTR radials provide solid performance and reliability in the most demanding settings. These customised solutions improve mining operations’ efficiency, safety, and production.

Furthermore, our tyres are engineered to improve driver comfort while reducing tiredness, making workdays safer and more productive, particularly on tough terrain. We are the only company in India that manufactures all-steel radial tyres and offers ASR and bias tyres for earthmoving, contributing significantly to the industry’s migration to radial tyres. All major equipment manufacturers trust us, and our products include some of the world’s largest tyres, such as the Earthmax SR 468, designed specifically for Indian coal mines.

How do you see the future of mining in India evolving, especially with the advancements in tyre technology and other innovations?
The future of mining in India is bright, emphasising sustainable and efficient operations. Implementing automation, AI, and IoT in mining operations will boost production while lowering environmental impact. At BKT, we are dedicated to assisting the industry’s progress by constantly inventing and developing solutions that suit mining’s ever-changing demands. BKT is prepared to respond to emerging improvements in off-highway equipment.

For more information, visit: https://www.bkt-tires.com/in/en/